Suicide Prevention – A Neurodivergent Perspective
Photo courtesy of Markus Spiske
Suicide and suicide prevention are often under-discussed, perhaps because the topic feels scary or awkward. However, starting the conversation can save lives. In the UK alone, 18 people die by suicide every day (CALM, 2024). Kate La Trobe, Trainee Behaviour Analyst at Positive Support Group offers her own perspective and thoughts as a person with an ADHD diagnosis.
As a late-diagnosed ADHD’er and a practitioner in the field, I understand the unique challenges that many individuals face, especially but not limited to those who are neurodivergent. Suicidality covers a range of thoughts and actions, from suicidal ideation (thinking about dying) to planning, attempting, and dying by suicide.
Suicide affects everyone, and neurodivergent populations face even higher risks. Among autistic individuals, suicide is the leading cause of premature death (Cassidy et al., 2020). Additionally, those with ADHD are five times more likely to attempt suicide than their neurotypical peers (Thomson et al., 2020).
Neurodivergence and Suicidality: My Perspective
Living with ADHD, I’ve experienced feelings of overwhelm, burnout, and suicidal ideation. Many neurodivergent people experience similar challenges. Social isolation or exclusion is one of the most significant risk factors, as difficulty navigating social situations or non-inclusive settings can leave us feeling disconnected. For autistic individuals, sensory overload and masking to "fit in" can cause emotional exhaustion, contributing to stress, anxiety, and depression—all known risk factors for suicidality (Cassidy, et al., 2018).
Moreover, accessing mental health services can be difficult for neurodivergent individuals, as these services are often designed for a neurotypical brain. Masking only increases the emotional strain over time (Hull et al., 2020).
Improving Quality of Life and Well-being
Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is centred on improving quality of life, which is essential for reducing the risk of suicidality. For neurodivergent individuals, well-being involves feeling supported, valued, and empowered to live authentically. Here are some important components to consider:
Social inclusion: Involvement in meaningful activities (chosen by individuals) fosters a sense of belonging and reduces loneliness.
Autonomy and choice: Being empowered to make decisions builds confidence and a sense of control.
Tailored mental health support: Neurodivergent individuals need mental health professionals who understand their specific needs and offer appropriate support, such as therapy adapted for neurodivergent traits.
Identifying Risk Factors
Small changes in behaviour or mood can be warning signs, and they often go unnoticed. It’s important to trust your intuition and look out for:
Mood changes: Extreme mood swings, becoming more withdrawn, irritable, or despondent.
Routine changes: Altered sleep, eating, or energy levels.
Increased substance use: Heightened use of drugs, alcohol, or medication.
Talking or joking about suicide: Whether direct or indirect, this should be taken seriously.
Social disconnection: Frequent cancellations of social plans or withdrawal from activities.
Recognising these signs early and addressing them can make a difference. Simply asking someone if they are feeling suicidal can help open the door for support.
Preventative Measures and Support
PBS promotes proactive strategies, and the same approach applies to suicide prevention. Some key strategies include:
Strengthening support networks: Having a strong support system of trusted individuals, whether family, friends, or professionals, helps reduce feelings of isolation.
Promoting well-being: Regular self-care, exercise, and structured routines can stabilise mood. Personally, maintaining a daily routine helps me stay regulated.
Access to specialised support: Neurodivergent individuals need tailored mental health services that meet their specific needs.
Creating safe environments: PBS practitioners can work to reduce stressors, provide consistent routines, and ensure individuals feel safe and supported.
Who to Contact in the UK
If you or someone you know is at risk of suicide, there are resources available:
Samaritans: 24/7 support for anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts (Phone: 116 123).
Papyrus UK: Focused on preventing suicide in young people under 35 (Phone: 0800 068 4141).
CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably): Support for anyone at risk (Phone: 0800 58 58 58).
NHS Mental Health Services: Crisis support, including helplines and walk-in centres.
If you suspect someone may be at crisis point, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.
Citations:
CALM. (2024). The facts: We need to talk about suicide. [Online]. https://www.thecalmzone.net/thelastphoto/the-facts
Cassidy, S., et al. (2018). Risk Markers for Suicidality in Autistic Adults. Molecular Autism.
Thomson, R., et al. (2020). ADHD and Suicide Attempts: A Systematic Review. Journal of Affective Disorders.
Hull, L., et al. (2020). "Putting on My Best Normal": Social Camouflaging in Adults with Autism Spectrum Conditions. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.
Russell, G., et al. (2016). Mental Health Interventions for Autistic Individuals: A Review. Autism.
